Choosing between a TV stand vs wall mount can be one of those decisions that might seem simple at first, but once you’re really into it, you realize it’s a bit more complicated than you thought. After all, this choice can dramatically affect the look, feel, and functionality of your room.
Whether you’re looking to make the most of your space or want a stylish setup that complements your décor, deciding between a wall mount and a TV stand is something you’ll want to get right.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each, highlight key factors you should consider, and give you some practical advice to help you decide what works best for you and your space.
So, let's break it down and help you figure out whether TV stands or wall mounts are the right choice for your needs, style, and budget.
Table of Contents
- TV Stand vs Wall Mount: Side-by-Side Comparison
- Who Should Choose a TV Stand?
- Who Should Choose a Wall Mount?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
TV Stand vs Wall Mount: Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing between a TV stand and a wall mount can be tricky, but breaking it down into specific categories can help. Below is a detailed comparison of both options to guide you in making the best decision based on your needs.
Space-saving
One of the biggest selling points of a TV wall mount is how it frees up valuable floor space. This is particularly beneficial in smaller rooms where every inch matters. If you’re trying to create a more open and airy feel, a wall-mounted TV console can really help.
On the other hand, choosing a stand for the TV takes up space on the floor. While it can be more substantial and provide storage, it may make your room feel more cluttered, especially if you have a smaller area.
Cost
When it comes to cost, there are cheap television stands, with prices varying depending on the style, material, and size. A basic model might be all you need, or you could opt for something with more storage options. However, you’ll likely be paying more for high-end or custom-built units.
Wall mounts can also be cost-effective, especially for basic, fixed models. However, if you’re considering a tilting or full-motion wall mount, the price can increase. Don't forget about installation costs if you're hiring a professional to handle the mounting process, which can also add up.
Installation
Setting up a television stand is typically straightforward, just unbox it, place it in the desired location, and you're good to go. It’s a quick setup that doesn't require any drilling or heavy lifting. If you're moving, a TV stand is portable, so you can easily take it with you.
In contrast, a TV holder wall installation involves drilling into your wall and potentially running cables. If you're not comfortable with DIY projects or your wall isn’t ideal for mounting, you might need professional help, which could increase costs and installation time.
Flexibility
A TV stand and TV setup offer the flexibility to change the layout of your room. You can move the stand around as needed, allowing you to adjust the setup to fit different layouts. A universal tv stand is far more convenient if you're someone who likes to rearrange the furniture or if your living situation might change.
Wall mounts, however, are more permanent. Once your TV is mounted, it's set in place. If you want to change things up or move your TV to another room, it would require remounting, which can be a hassle.
Aesthetics
If you're looking to complement your existing room decor, a well-chosen tv stand decorated with stylish accessories, plants, or artwork would do. From traditional wood designs to sleek modern units with glass or metal accents, you can find several TV stand Ideas that fit your style and enhance the room. Plus, many TV stands come with storage, making them both functional and stylish.
On the other hand, wall mounts offer a modern, minimalist look. Mounting the TV on the wall creates a clean, uncluttered space that’s perfect for contemporary or minimalist homes. This setup lets you focus on the TV itself and avoid visual clutter.
Safety
In terms of safety, TV stands are generally better for homes with children or pets. They don’t require the wall to hold up the weight of the TV, and you won’t need to worry about the TV falling off the wall. Likewise, sturdy television stands, specifically designed for heavier units like a 55 tv on stand, provide solid bases that can prevent accidental tipping.
On the other hand, a wall mount is very secure when installed correctly. However, it requires a sturdy wall (e.g., concrete or wood studs) to ensure the TV stays in place. If the wall isn't strong enough, there’s a risk of the TV falling, which could be dangerous for little ones or pets.
Viewing Angles and Comfort
One thing to consider is how your choice affects your viewing comfort. Modern TV wall mounts, especially full-motion or tilting models, allow you to adjust the angle of the TV to reduce glare and ensure a perfect viewing angle from anywhere in the room. This is ideal if you have seating in different areas or want to watch TV while standing or lying down.
While some advanced tv mountable stands also offer similar adjustments, traditional television stands generally have limited angle options. These stands typically place the TV at a fixed height, which may not always align with the most comfortable viewing angle, especially if your seating is lower or higher than average.
Storage Needs
If you have a lot of devices like gaming consoles, speakers, or DVD players, television stands are hard to beat. It provides shelves, drawers, and cabinets to keep your media gear organized and easily accessible. You can also use the extra space for decorative touches that enhance the room’s style.
A wall mount, while sleek and space-saving, doesn’t offer storage. You may need to invest in a separate console or a wall mount entertainment stand below the TV if you have multiple gadgets that need a home. So, your storage needs could play a big role in deciding which option works best.
Maintenance and Accessibility
Maintenance is another important factor. With a stand for the TV, it's much easier to access the back of your television for plugging and unplugging devices, cleaning, or making quick adjustments. Simply pull the stand away from the wall if needed.
Wall-mounted TVs, however, can be trickier to maintain. Once your TV is up on the wall, accessing the ports or cleaning behind it requires more effort—and in some cases, you might have to remove the TV entirely. Consider how often you’ll need to access your TV’s connections before deciding.
Who Should Choose a TV Stand?
- Need Extra Storage: If you have gadgets, DVDs, or media equipment that need storage, a TV stand provides shelves and drawers for the organization.
- Prefer Flexibility: TV stands are portable, so if you like rearranging your space or moving your TV around, this option works well.
- Small Rooms: TV stands fit nicely in compact spaces, offering an efficient and stylish option without overwhelming the room.
- Want Design Variety: TV stands come in many styles to suit different room aesthetics, from modern to traditional designs.
- Easy Setup: If you don’t want to deal with complicated installations, TV stands are easier to assemble and set up.
Who Should Choose a Wall Mount?
- Limited Floor Space: Wall mounts free up floor space, making them ideal for smaller rooms or minimalist designs.
- Modern Aesthetic: For a sleek, contemporary look, a wall-mounted TV creates a streamlined appearance.
- Need More Room Functionality: Wall mounting saves space and makes the room feel less cluttered, allowing for more seating or activity areas.
- Safety First: If you have kids or pets, a wall mount is a safer option since it keeps the TV secure and out of reach.
- Permanent Setup: If you’re looking for a long-term, fixed solution and don’t plan to move your TV often, a wall mount is ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it better to mount a TV on the wall or stand?
It depends on your space, style, and preferences. Wall mounting your TV saves floor space and offers a clean, modern look, especially in smaller rooms. It’s also great for a minimalist style. On the other hand, a TV stand offers more flexibility, and extra storage, and can be easily moved. If you need storage or want a more traditional setup, a stand might be the better option.
Do you need a TV stand for a mounted TV?
No, if you mount your TV on the wall, you don’t need a traditional TV stand. However, you might still need a separate unit for storing media devices, soundbars, or decor. You can either go for a wall-mounted media shelf or a sleek console underneath the TV for extra storage, depending on your space and needs.
How to mount a TV on a TV stand?
Mounting a TV on a TV stand typically involves securing the TV to a mount attached to the stand, offering a more elevated and stylish setup. Here's how you can do it:
- Choose a TV stand with a built-in TV mount or a stand that’s mount-compatible.
- Make sure the mount fits your TV's VESA pattern (the distance between the screw holes on the back of the TV).
- Secure the TV mount to the stand according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Attach the TV to the mount by aligning it with the bracket and tightening the screws.
- Double-check the TV is securely mounted and adjust the angle if needed.
Once mounted, you can enjoy a clean, organized setup with the flexibility of a TV stand.
What to put under a wall-mounted TV in the living room?
Under a wall-mounted TV, you can place decorative items like plants, picture frames, or a low-profile console for storage. If you have a soundbar or media equipment, a sleek TV unit or floating TV stand works well. Avoid cluttering the space to maintain the clean, minimalist look that wall mounting offers.
For more inspiration on decorating your TV area, explore our 15 TV Stand Decor Ideas to Style Your Living Room!
Can a TV be too heavy to mount on a wall?
Yes, TVs can be too heavy to mount on a wall if the wall mount isn’t rated for the TV’s weight. Always check the weight capacity of your wall mount and make sure the wall you’re mounting on can support the TV. Some large and heavy TVs may require special mounts or reinforcement to ensure secure installation.
Do TV wall mounts leave big holes?
TV wall mounts leave holes in the wall when installed, but they’re typically small. The size of the holes depends on the type of mount and the wall material. For drywall, anchors are used to secure the mount, and they will leave small holes once removed. If you plan to move or remove the mount, filling the holes is a simple repair.
Are TV wall units out of style?
Not at all! TV wall units are still a popular choice for creating a sleek, modern look. The key is finding a style that suits your room’s aesthetic. Minimalistic floating shelves or wall units with built-in storage are especially trendy. As long as the design matches your space and needs, TV wall units are still very much in style.
In Conclusion
Deciding between a TV stand vs a wall mount comes down to your personal preferences and the space you’re working with. Both options have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, so take the time to assess your priorities before making a decision.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you go with a TV stand or wall mount, make sure to enjoy your setup and the enhanced viewing experience it brings to your home!
At the end of the day, it’s about creating a TV setup that fits your personal style and makes your space feel like home. So take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and pick the one that best suits your lifestyle.
If you’re leaning toward a cleaner, wall-mounted look, you’ll love these 18 Best Floating TV Stand Ideas.